Focusing on staff the way forward

Mentoring scheme aims to develop talent in the industry

United Wholesale (Scotland) is a ‘mentee’.

TRAINING is to be a key focus of the Scottish wholesale industry over the next year, following the launch of a mentoring scheme.

Speaking at the Scottish Wholesale Association (SWA) annual conference, outgoing president George Benson said the scheme, which welcomed its first four students earlier this year, will help “motivate and develop” industry talent.
“The [Mentoring] Trust will provide unique development opportunities for employees of SWA member organisations who have a drive for ambition within the industry, with the programme structured to fit in around business needs,” he said.
“Mentoring is happening ‘on the job’ so our mentees are realising their own capability and potential – as well as having the support of an expert to encourage growth.”
Each of the four ‘mentees’ – from JW Filshill, United Wholesale (Scotland), Booker and Forteith Foodservice – were recruited to the programme after being endorsed by their line managers and have since been paired with a mentor. “If we have the right people with the right attitude and the right skills to create a truly world-class industry we will be ahead of the game,” added Benson.
A further three places are available on the scheme.